After all this time and work, it’s come down to the moment where you have to make a decision about where you want to go. This may be the biggest decision you’ve ever made in your life so you’re no doubt feeling a lot of pressure. Here are a couple of suggestions to help you deal with the final step in the college search.

Pay attention to the deadlines. Take your time but make sure you respond by the deadlines given as the last thing you want to happen is to have your spot given away. If you’ve made the decision sooner, notify them and start working on your deposit.

Let your counselor do their job. High school guidance counselors are not just there for information. They really are counselors and can help you with your decision, especially if they’ve gotten to know you during your search.

Talk to your parents. Even though this is your future, your parents have a vested interest in this decision. They’re the ones who got you to where you are and in most cases, are the ones paying, so include them in the decision too.

Go with your gut instincts. In the end, it’s all going to come down to what feels most right to you so take everything else in and listen to yourself. After all, it’s you that will be attending there in the fall!

Don’t panic. While it is a big decision, it’s not the end of the world if you find you have made the wrong choice come fall. Make the decision to the best of your ability and if you get there and find out the school isn’t ideal for you, you can transfer to the one that is.